Ceuta crisis sparks political tension in Spain

The ongoing crisis in Ceuta has triggered political friction within Spain, impacting both the monarchy and the main opposition party. King Felipe VI has faced criticism from right-wing sectors for not visiting the autonomous city, a move the government reportedly declined to endorse to avoid provoking Morocco.

Simultaneously, the crisis has placed People's Party (PP) leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo in a difficult position. Feijóo has criticized Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez for a “late” and “insufficient” response, calling for the situation to be declared a matter of national security and demanding reforms to immigration laws.

This domestic tension is compounded by escalating diplomatic friction between Spain and Italy. Following concerns over migration and security, Italy has re-established traveler controls for those arriving from Spanish territory, leading to a reciprocal response from Madrid regarding connections from Italy.